MINISTER STÉPHANE DION SEES NO CONTRADICTION
BETWEEN CANADA`S FRENCH-ENGLISH DUALITY
AND MULTICULTURAL DIVERSITY

ST. BONIFACE, MANITOBA, March 13, 1997 – At a forum today at the Collège universitaire de St-Boniface with representatives of the Aboriginal, Francophone, and multicultural communities of Manitoba, Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Stéphane Dion stated that there is "no contradiction between French-English duality and multicultural diversity, but a powerful complementarity."

Mr. Dion came with historical examples to show that despite "the darker pages of our past", Canada has "perhaps achieved more than any other country in terms of the universal ideals of openness, tolerance, and respect for diversity."

The multicultural character of Canada today was called a product of the "original experience of accommodation between the dualities of French and English, native and non-native Canadians."

"It is absurd to oppose the duality of French and English Canada in the name of diversity, for without that duality, we would not have had the experience that has allowed us to embrace an even greater diversity."

The Minister challenged Manitoba's cultural communities to become more involved in the unity debate. "Your communities have all played a crucial role in building this province and country, and that is why you have an especially important role to play in preserving Canada as a positive example to the whole world of the recognition of the inherent dignity of the human person."

With reference to the Constitution, the Minister noted that a recognition of Quebec's distinctiveness would parallel the existing references to Aboriginal rights and Canada's multicultural heritage.

Mr. Dion stated that such a recognition would "strengthen Canada, and should be embraced by all citizens, especially those who also understand the desire to have multiple identities yet remain proud Canadians."

The Minister praised Winnipeg as an example of multicultural diversity which has built on its historic roots. "If a community as diverse and varied as Winnipeg can learn from its past and find ways of living together, surely that sends a message of reconciliation to all Canadians, including Quebecers, that is an essential step in building our national unity."

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For information:
André Lamarre
Press Secretary
(613) 943-1838

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